Welcome to this month’s NDIS Round-Up! As always, we’re here to cut through the noise and bring you updates, resources, and helpful articles. This month we’ve got everything from price guide changes and funding period tweaks to practical tools and inspiring community stories.

It’s been a challenging few weeks of news in the NDIS. Remember, you’re not alone in navigating these changes — we’re walking beside you every step of the way. Grab a cuppa, dive in, and let’s make sense of the NDIS together.

With heart,
Phuong & Sam

NDIS Updates

Price guide coming soon

On 11th June, the Annual Pricing Review Report was released, with recommendations for the coming year’s price guide.

It was a tough pill to swallow for many providers, especially allied health therapies. However it strongly aligns with the focus on making the NDIS a for-purpose sector.

The only increases applied, with the exception of psychology, create a net zero increase in reality as they align with wage rises across the different sectors. At least providers are not expected to absorb wage increases, but profit margins won’t shift for another year.

Therapy providers will see a decrease in their NDIS rates, and Psychology is standardized nationally which is a win for some, and a small loss for others.

Here’s a quick summary of the recommendations:

• Nursing hourly rates will get an increase in line the ABS Wage Rise Price Index and the Consumer Price Index (CPI)
• Support Work hourly rates will get an increase in line the SCHADS award increases.
• Level 1 Support Coordination will get a small increase in line with the Disability Support Worker Cost Model, however Level 2 and Level 3 do not change.
• Psychologists will see their fees become standardized nationally, resulting in a $10 per hour increase in NSW, VIC and ACT, but a similar decrease elsewhere.
• Physiotherapy, Dieticians, Podiatrists and other Therapy providers will see a reduction in their hourly fees, and need to offer more flexible appointment times using 10 minute increments.

The price guide will be released in the next few weeks, and we’ll share it when it’s available.

Changes to funding periods

As you may know, in May the Commission announced a transition the three-month funding periods. This is already enacted but will impact your participants as their plans are reassessed or if they get a brand new plan.

We know this has felt like a huge administrative burden and has overwhelmed a lot of providers already.

We highly recommend creating an NDIS agreement that is not tied to the funding period, and using an appendix to set out the schedule of supports and funding every three months. This means you’re dealing with one page, not a massive workload, and if nothing changes – it’s just updating dates.

If you need a suitable template, reach out to us.

MyID

Please don’t forget to create your government MyID as soon as possible.

The PACE system will be linked to your MyID (which you’ll need for all your government services, including ATO, Medicare, Centrelink etc).

Make yourself heard

The Commission has provided a number of opportunities for providers to engage with the many changes happening within the NDIS and provide feedback. If you haven’t already, express your interest and make your voice heard.

Useful Resources

Are you familiar with Disinfluencer?

Simone has created an incredible resource in her stock library of real disabled people. She also manages and represents disabled talent across Australia.

Do you need more fidget toys?  DIYS to try at home!

Source Kids recently shared 5 different DIY fidgets, check it out!

Interesting Reads:

10 days left to nominate an incredible mum in business!

The AusMumpreneur awards have become one of the most reputable awards for women in business in Australia. Nominations are open right now for amazing mums in business. Know someone who deserves a nomination? Get going.

How vertical work benefits kids with disability

Ever noticed how kids love drawing on easels, playing on vertical chalkboards, or sticking things on the wall? There’s more going on than just fun – working on a vertical surface is a brilliant way to build strength, coordination, and motor skills.

Insightful article on the reality of invisible disabilities

“You don’t look disabled” — it’s a phrase that can dismiss the very real struggles many Australians face. This powerful story sheds light on the hidden impact of invisible disabilities and the urgent need for greater understanding and support.